How can I have closer fellowship with my father?

Request Protection and Accountability

The strongest innate tendency of a man is the instinct to protect. Men will fight to protect that which they love and for which they are responsible.

Tell your father that you need his protection. Ask him to protect you in specific ways, such as holding you accountable to think pure thoughts, to memorize Scripture, to choose friends wisely, or to dress modestly. If he is willing to hold you accountable, your regular interaction about these areas of life should develop into times of rich fellowship.

Admire and Appreciate Him

A father also longs to be admired and appreciated. Take time to consider the investments your father has made in your life, and express genuine admiration and appreciation to your father.

Do you periodically thank him for the things he has done and is doing for you?

Do you ask him to teach you the lessons he has learned over the years?

Do you express your admiration of him for the courageous things he has done?

If you struggle to identify reasons to admire and appreciate him, ask God for wisdom. Ask the Lord to show you ways to express sincere gratitude to your father, such as gratitude for the home he provides for you and the food you receive each day.

Bless One Another and Pray for Each Other

Your father probably wants to bless you, but he may not know how to do that. A typical Biblical blessing is found in Numbers 6:24-26: “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”

Using Scripture or your own words, you could write out a sample of a blessing you would want your dad to give you, and then ask him if he would be willing to pray for you with those words of blessing.

If he is uncomfortable with that idea, consider writing out your prayer of blessing for him and ask him if you could read it to him. Ask him how you can pray for him; listen attentively when he responds, and be faithful to pray for him daily.

Seek After God and Wisdom

Scripture says, “A wise son maketh a glad father…” (Proverbs 10:1). Ask your dad to point out areas of your life in which you need to grow in wisdom. Do your best to follow through with his wise counsel, and thank him for his guidance.

Make every effort to deepen your relationship with the Lord. “Trust in the Lord, and do good . … Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. … Wait on the LORD, and keep his way…” (Psalm 37:3-4, 34).